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Author Spotlight: Exploring the Complexities of Achilles Tendon Injuries — Research and Future Directions
Published on: October 27, 2023
Achilles tendon thickness reduces immediately after a marathon
Isabelle Scott1, Peter Malliaras2,3, Alex Tardioli2
1Department of Mathematics, University of Oxford, Oxford, England.
Background:
The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the immediate effect of running a marathon on Achilles tendon anteroposterior thickness.
Methods:
In 25 runners who took part in the London marathon, ultrasonography was used to measure the Achilles tendon thickness pre- and immediately post-marathon and to identify any structural abnormalities indicating tendinopathy. Pain was recorded using a numerical rating scale at baseline and post-marathon. Twenty-one participants were included in the final analysis.
Results:
Running a marathon resulted in a significant decrease (- 13%, p < 0.01) in anteroposterior diameter of the Achilles tendon immediately following the marathon. There was no change in the proportion of Achilles tendons with structural abnormalities (34%) or pain (12%) following the marathon (p > 0.05).
Conclusion:
Running a marathon resulted in an immediate reduction in anteroposterior diameter of the Achilles tendon. This finding may have implications for injury prevention and recovery following a marathon.
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Anterior Compartment
The anterior compartment includes muscles that contribute to the dorsiflexion of the foot. This compartment houses the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus muscles.